A weekly lunch club for people in Chippenham aged 55-plus is being launched on Tuesday, September 3.

The club is among several new services being offered to support older people living in their own homes in Chippenham, in a scheme run by charity Methodist Homes (MHA).

Members will be able to have regular visits from a befriender and receive newsletters and telephone support. They can also access information on approved handyman services, day trips, outings and social activities.

Anne Blackwell, MHA’s live-at-home co-ordinator for Chippenham, said: “We know many older people want to live in their own homes for as long as possible and we want to support that choice. However, we understand that managing on your own isn’t always easy and isolation and loneliness can be a problem.

“Our aim is to offer older people opportunities for companionship, trusted support and advice whenever they need it. We hope that our Live at Home service, which is already operating in more than 70 areas across the country, will make a real difference to the quality of life of older people in the town.”

The lunch club, at Fairways retirement home bistro in Malmesbury Road, will cost £5.25 for a two-course homecooked meal and meets at 1pm. Transport may be available. Call Anne Blackwell on (01249) 461239.

Anyone aged 55 and over, living in their own home in the Chippenham area, can join the scheme. MHA has been running Live at Home Schemes for 25 years.